In Milan Kundera's "The Joke," the narrator reflects on the accusations of individualism directed at him, particularly in the context of sport. He feels compelled to defend himself against these claims, challenging others to provide concrete evidence of his supposed individualism. Instead of rational arguments, his accusers rely on vague interpretations of his behavior, particularly focusing on his smile.

The narrator questions the validity of their assessments, pointing out that his smile is simply an expression of joy. However, others perceive it as introspective, implying a deeper individualist attitude. This highlights the complexity of social interactions, where personal expressions can be misinterpreted, leading to misunderstandings about one's character and intentions.